If you haven't attended parties or large events, you've worn your face covering, you separate yourself from others and regularly use hand sanitizer, you may wonder how you became positive for COVID-19. Fact of the matter is that sometimes you can do everything right and still get sick. If this happens to you, taking care of yourself will allow you to help protect others.
- Report your positive status
When you report your test results to covid19@unl.edu, this ensures that the university can offer a timely response to help protect others. The Public Health Advocacy Team will reach out to you to assist with contact tracing to identify others who should be tested and quarantine to stop the spread. - Reach out to Student Advocacy and Support
This office can help you notify instructors and make academic flexibility arrangements so you're able to continue with your studies. - Follow isolation protocols
If you're feeling ok, take this time to get a jumpstart on your upcoming midterm papers or get ahead on reading. (Or you can always binge that Netflix show you've heard so much about.)
While it may sound lonely, isolation is the best way you can help others stay healthy. And remember, you can still connect with others virtually, so be sure to check in often on friends and family. If you're still looking for more, consider joining a digital community or virtual event. - Talk it out
If you need to talk to someone about your situation and how you’re feeling, Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) is here for you. - Keep protecting others
After your isolation ends, continue to help those around you take the proper precautions by washing hands often, maintaining 6 feet of separation from others and wearing your face covering.
The COVID-19 pandemic is a marathon, not a sprint. Through a continuous commitment to make smart personal choices and think of others, we all can help slow the spread of infection.